How to Plan a Trip to Sarajevo
The complete 2026 guide — flights, hotels, things to do and airport transfers, all in one place. Everything a first-time visitor to Bosnia and Herzegovina needs.
Your 4-step Sarajevo plan
Step 1 — Book flights to SJJ
Sarajevo International Airport (SJJ) is the main gateway to Sarajevo. Compare fares across major airlines and OTAs before locking a date.
See flight deals to SJJStep 2 — Pick a neighborhood
Base yourself in Baščaršija (Old Bazaar) + Sebilj fountain for the best first-time visit — 15th-century Ottoman bazaar — pigeon square + coppersmiths + 100+ Ottoman-era shops.
Where to stay in SarajevoStep 3 — Plan your itinerary
Start with Baščaršija (Old Bazaar) + Sebilj fountain, then build outward. Most first-time visitors need 3-5 days to see the highlights of Sarajevo.
Things to do in SarajevoStep 4 — Sort your airport transfer
Bus to centre (limited schedule) is BAM 5 and takes 30 min. Pre-book a private transfer for stress-free arrival.
SJJ arrival guideBefore you book — visa check
Visa-free for US, UK, EU, Canada, AU, NZ, Japan, Korea + 80 nationalities (90/180). Bosnia is NOT Schengen — separate immigration but easy crossing.